Fungus on bat wing (left) and nose (right). Photos by Ryan Vonlinden, NYDEC. https://northernwoodlands.org
Across North America, there is an emerging invasive fungal species known as Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd). It is killing millions of our cave-dwelling bats while they sleep and some North American bat populations may be in danger of extinction. Pd is responsible for white-nose syndrome (WNS) disease in bats and is a cold dwelling fungus that grows the muzzle and wings of bats. It can cause burn-like lesions on bats’ skin and cause premature arousal from hibernation, ultimately leading to death. Currently, there are know widespread treatment methods for WNS disease.
The Peterson Group is interested in understanding how Pd thrives on a bat host. Pd has a diverse set of metalloenzymes it secretes at WNS infections sites and many of their roles in WNS disease is unknown. What is the function of these secreted enzymes? Do they participate in host colonization and tissue invasion? How are these metalloenzymes activated? Can they be targets to treat WNS disease and increase bat survivorship?
The Peterson Lab is interested in answering these basic but essential questions to help fight WNS disease spread across our North American Bat population.
Current and Past Students working on this project:
Christopher McDonald – Major Biochemistry ’22
Alyssa Friudenberg – Major Biochemistry ’24
Precious Obafemi – Major Microbiology ’25